How To Experience Route 66 in California

Exploring Route 66 in California

Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is one of the most iconic highways in American history. It stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles and passes through eight states. One of the most interesting sections on Route 66 is the California portion, which takes you through some of the state’s most beautiful and historic places. From Barstow to Needles, Roy’s Cafe to Amboy, and Lupton, here are some of the sites and activities you can experience while traveling on this legendary highway.

Route 66 Travel in California

How To Experience Route 66 in California offers a dramatic finale to the historic journey from Chicago to the Pacific Ocean. The California stretch of the “Mother Road” runs from the desert landscapes of Needles on the Arizona border, across the Mojave Desert, through the San Bernardino Mountains, and into the sprawling urban scene of Los Angeles before ending at the Santa Monica Pier. Along the way, travelers experience a rich blend of scenery, from sun-baked ghost towns and vintage roadside motels to thriving cities filled with Route 66 nostalgia. Iconic stops include the Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, the Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino, and historic downtown Barstow. Each location carries a piece of the mid-century American spirit that made Route 66 a symbol of freedom and adventure.

As you continue westward, the route threads through Pasadena and the heart of old Los Angeles before culminating at the Pacific Ocean. Here, the scenery shifts from desert and mountain to palm-lined boulevards and sandy beaches. Travelers can visit classic diners, restored service stations, and neon-lit motels that harken back to the heyday of road travel. While much of the original highway has been absorbed by modern freeways, dedicated stretches and well-marked historic routes still invite exploration. Route 66 in California is more than a road trip — it’s a moving time capsule, offering a glimpse into America’s golden age of car culture and the enduring dream of the open road.

About California

State Facts

Absolutely! Here’s a list of 15 fascinating facts about California:

California became the 31st state of the United States on September 9, 1850.
Sacramento is the state capital, while Los Angeles is the largest city in California.
California is the most populous state in the U.S., with over 39 million residents.
The state is home to the tallest tree on Earth, a coast redwood named “Hyperion,” which stands over 379 feet tall.
California is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from beaches along the Pacific Ocean to snow-capped mountains, deserts, and lush forests.
The Golden Gate Bridge, located in San Francisco, is one of the most iconic structures in the world.
Hollywood is in Los Angeles, making California the center of the global entertainment industry, with the film and TV industry being a major part of its economy.
California’s official nickname is “The Golden State”, referring to the Gold Rush of the 1840s and 1850s, which brought a massive influx of settlers to the region.
Lake Tahoe, located on the border of California and Nevada, is the largest alpine lake in North America.
The state has the highest and lowest points in the contiguous U.S., with Mount Whitney at 14,505 feet and Badwater Basin in Death Valley at 282 feet below sea level.
California is a global leader in technology, with Silicon Valley serving as the headquarters for major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook.
Yosemite National Park is famous for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees, and is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S.
California is the largest agricultural producer in the U.S., known for its fruits, vegetables, and wine, particularly in regions like Napa Valley.
The state is prone to earthquakes, being situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, with the San Andreas Fault running through much of the state.
California has more national parks than any other state in the U.S., with 9 national parks, including famous ones like Joshua Tree, Sequoia, and Death Valley.

History of Route 66 in California

Of all the states Route 66 travels through, California holds a special place in the highway’s mythology. As the western terminus of the “Mother Road,” California symbolized opportunity, final destination, and often, a new beginning. Here’s a detailed look at the history of Route 66 in California:

The Birth of Route 66 in California

When U.S. Route 66 was officially commissioned in 1926, it stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, ultimately covering about 2,448 miles. In California, Route 66 entered from Needles, a small desert town on the western banks of the Colorado River, and wound its way through the Mojave Desert, across the San Bernardino Mountains, and into the booming cities of San Bernardino, Pasadena, and finally Los Angeles.

Initially, the route closely followed old wagon trails and early automobile paths such as the National Old Trails Road. The road was a crucial link connecting the remote inland desert communities to the urban centers on the Pacific coast.

The Dust Bowl Migration and Route 66

The 1930s brought the Dust Bowl migration, and Route 66 took on new significance. Thousands of desperate families from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and other southern plains states journeyed westward, hoping for a better life in California’s fields and orchards. Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath immortalized this migration, often calling Route 66 the “Mother Road.” Migrants crossed the grueling desert landscape, stopping at oases like Barstow, Victorville, and San Bernardino, before reaching the lush (and often elusive) promise of California’s farmlands and industries.

Postwar Boom and the Rise of the Automobile Culture

After World War II, California experienced explosive growth. Millions of veterans and families flooded into the state, and Route 66 became a lifeline for a new car-based culture. The road now bustled with tourists, travelers, and truckers. As the automobile became central to American life, Route 66 was lined with motels, diners, gas stations, and roadside attractions.

In Southern California, Route 66 passed through burgeoning suburbs and became part of the rapid suburbanization of Los Angeles County. Towns like Pasadena, Glendora, and Monrovia grew along the route, and roadside architecture—like Googie-style coffee shops and flashy neon signs—reflected the optimism and energy of the era.

Changes and Decline

By the 1950s and 60s, Route 66’s future was threatened by the new Interstate Highway System, authorized by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. New freeways like Interstate 40, Interstate 15, and Interstate 10 offered faster travel across the desert and into Los Angeles, bypassing many of the small towns that had depended on Route 66 traffic for survival.

In California, major changes included:

Construction of Interstate 40, which rerouted traffic away from Needles and the Mojave towns.
The creation of the Foothill Freeway (I-210) and parts of I-10, which replaced much of the old Route 66 corridor through the Inland Empire and into Los Angeles.
In 1972, Route 66 was officially decommissioned in California from Santa Monica to US 91 (now I-15) at Barstow.
By 1985, the entire Route 66 was formally removed from the U.S. Highway System.

Preservation and Legacy

Despite its decommissioning, Route 66 never disappeared from the hearts of travelers. In California, many efforts were made to preserve, restore, and celebrate the old highway:

Santa Monica Pier is often celebrated as the symbolic (if not official) western terminus of Route 66, complete with a sign marking the “End of the Trail.”
In the Mojave Desert, towns like Amboy (home to the famous Roy’s Motel and Café) and Barstow have worked to preserve their Route 66 landmarks.
In San Bernardino, the original Wigwam Motel still offers a classic experience of staying in a vintage “teepee.”
The annual Route 66 Rendezvous car show in San Bernardino celebrates the highway’s legacy.

Additionally, parts of the old road have been designated as Historic Route 66, and travelers can still drive long stretches of the original pavement, particularly through the desert and the Inland Empire.

Route 66’s Role in Popular Culture

California’s stretch of Route 66 became iconic in pop culture, thanks to songs like “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” and appearances in films, television shows, and literature. It symbolized freedom, adventure, and the American dream—especially in the postwar decades when the West represented opportunity and reinvention.

Geography Along Route 66 in California

The geography of California along Route 66 is strikingly diverse, offering travelers a vivid cross-section of the state’s varied landscapes. Starting at the Colorado River near Needles, the route crosses the arid Mojave Desert, where vast open spaces, rugged mountains, and dramatic rock formations dominate the scenery. Continuing westward, the road passes through dry valleys and isolated towns before climbing into the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. As Route 66 approaches the Los Angeles Basin, the terrain shifts again, giving way to urban landscapes interspersed with low hills and lush coastal plains. This variety showcases California’s dramatic natural contrasts and highlights why the state’s portion of Route 66 is so memorable.

Climate Along Route 66 in California

Traveling Route 66 through California offers a diverse climate experience, transitioning from the Mediterranean conditions of the coastal regions to the arid desert landscapes of the inland areas. The route begins in Santa Monica, where the climate is mild and temperate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 64°F (18°C) and 77°F (25°C).

As you journey eastward, the climate becomes more varied. In cities like San Bernardino, located in the Inland Empire, temperatures can reach highs of 95°F (35°C) during the summer months, with cooler temperatures in the winter . Further along, in the Mojave Desert towns of Ludlow and Amboy, the climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and cooler winters, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) in the summer.

Traveling during the summer months can expose travelers to high temperatures, especially in the desert regions. It’s advisable to plan your trip during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate, and to stay informed about local weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey along California’s stretch of Route 66.

Where to Stay in California

Lodging in California by city.

Towns Located on Route 66 in California

List of Route 66 Towns in California from east to west

Needles
Barstow
Victorville
San Bernardino
Rialto

Fontana
Pomona
Claremont
Montclair
La Verne

Glendora
Azusa
Pasadena
Los Angeles

Towns Located on Route 66 in California

A List of Route 66 Attractions in California

Here’s a list of notable attractions along Route 66 in California:

San Bernardino – The Route 66 Museum
Located in the historic Santa Fe Depot, this museum celebrates the history of Route 66 in California with a collection of vintage signs, photos, and memorabilia.
San Bernardino – The Wigwam Motel
A classic Route 66 motel, the Wigwam Motel offers teepee-shaped cabins, making it a unique and nostalgic stop for travelers along the highway.
Rialto – The Route 66 Sign
A large, iconic Route 66 sign in Rialto marks the famous highway’s route through the area, making it a great spot for photos.
Fontana – The Historic Route 66 Fontana Motel
This vintage motel offers a glimpse into the mid-century Route 66 experience and is a great stop for travelers wanting to see how things were during the heyday of the Mother Road.
Victorville – The California Route 66 Museum
The museum in Victorville features Route 66 memorabilia, historical displays, and exhibits on the cultural significance of the highway in California.
Barstow – Route 66 Mother Road Museum
Located in the Barstow Station, this museum showcases the history of Route 66 with exhibits on vintage cars, signs, and artifacts from the highway’s past.
Barstow – The Harvey House
A restored Harvey House, once part of a chain of luxury hotels along the railroad, provides a historic stop for travelers on Route 66 with exhibits about the railroad and Route 66’s role in American transportation.
Lenwood – The Route 66 Neon Sign
A vibrant neon sign marks Lenwood’s place on Route 66, a perfect place to snap a picture of the neon lights that were once a hallmark of the highway.
Amboy – The Amboy Crater
A volcanic formation near Amboy, this stop offers stunning views of the crater, which is an ancient landmark along Route 66, adding natural beauty to the journey.
Amboy – Roy’s Motel and Café
A classic Route 66 stop that has been beautifully restored, Roy’s Motel and Café in Amboy is a reminder of the heyday of Route 66 with its neon sign and vintage atmosphere.
Needles – The Needles Route 66 Sign
A colorful and iconic Route 66 sign greets travelers as they enter Needles, making it a great spot to mark the end of a long day of driving along the historic route.
Kingman – The Route 66 Museum
Located in the Kingman Visitor Center, this museum offers a detailed look at Route 66’s history, with exhibits on the road’s impact on the local community and beyond.
Barstow – The Route 66 Truck Stop
This historic truck stop in Barstow is another classic Route 66 stop with vintage signs, old gas pumps, and plenty of nostalgia.
San Bernardino – The Redlands Bowl
While not directly on Route 66, the Redlands Bowl is a historic outdoor amphitheater in San Bernardino, offering concerts and cultural events in a picturesque setting, just a short detour from the highway.
Los Angeles – The End of the Trail
Santa Monica, the final destination of Route 66, marks the “End of the Trail” with a monument and a sign at the Santa Monica Pier, making it a ceremonial end point for travelers completing the full route.

California’s Route 66 attractions are a mixture of vintage motels, museums, quirky roadside stops, and natural landmarks, offering a nostalgic journey through the history and culture of the iconic highway. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of neon signs, or simply love a good roadside diner, California has something to offer every Route 66 traveler.

Attractions Listed in the National Register

Other Sites: Hotels, Districts, and More

Classic Route 66 Motels

Still-Operating Vintage Motels

Wigwam Motel
- Address: 2728 Foothill Blvd, San Bernardino, CA 92410
- Notes: Famous teepee-shaped rooms! Built in 1949, this is one of the most iconic Route 66 stops.

Saga Motor Hotel
- Address: 1633 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106
- Notes: Classic mid-century Route 66 motel, still operating with retro style intact.

Arroyo Vista Inn (Historic 1910s Building)
- Address: 335 Monterey Rd, South Pasadena, CA 91030
- Notes: Not a traditional motel, but historic lodging right off Route 66’s Pasadena alignment.

Desert Inn Motel
- Address: 1151 W Main St, Barstow, CA 92311
- Notes: Classic roadside motel from the Route 66 heyday; still welcoming travelers.

Route 66 Motel
- Address: 195 W Main St, Barstow, CA 92311
- Notes: Retro-fabulous with lots of classic cars parked outside. Perfect photo ops with its old-school neon signs.

Abandoned but Photogenic or Historic Vintage Motels

Bagdad Café and Motel (Partially Abandoned)
- Address: 46548 National Trails Hwy, Newberry Springs, CA 92365
- Notes: Famous from the movie Bagdad Café. The café survives, but the adjacent motel ruins create an iconic desert photography spot.

Roy’s Motel and Café (Restored Sign, Motel Abandoned)
- Address: 87520 National Trails Hwy, Amboy, CA 92304
- Notes: Legendary Route 66 landmark. The neon sign is restored and lit at night, but the motel cabins are abandoned — hauntingly beautiful.

Cadiz Summit Cafe and Motel (Ruins)
- Address: Near Cadiz Rd & Route 66, Essex, CA 92332
- Notes: Deserted remains of a tiny motel and café; classic empty desert setting — great for dramatic photos.

Snell’s Cafe & Motel (Ruins)
- Address: Near 36414 National Trails Hwy, Daggett, CA 92327
- Notes: Fading remnants of a once-busy stop. Hard to spot but a hidden gem for serious Route 66 explorers.

Chambless Motel (Abandoned)
- Address: 85372 Cadiz Rd, Chambless, CA 92319
- Notes: Tiny town — now nearly abandoned. The ruins of the Chambless Motel make for eerie, atmospheric photography.

Boron Motel (Abandoned but Visible)
- Address: 26881 Twenty Mule Team Rd, Boron, CA 93516
- Notes: Near a later alignment of Route 66. Mostly abandoned but the bones of the mid-century motel remain.

Neon Signs & Ghost Motels

12. Hi-Lo Motel (Vintage Sign Remains)
- Address: 1001 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311
- Notes: Motel is gone but the vintage Hi-Lo Motel neon sign remains. Great classic roadside photo.

Summary Highlights

Best still-operating classic: Wigwam Motel (San Bernardino) and Route 66 Motel (Barstow)
Best abandoned photo ops: Roy’s Motel and Café (Amboy) and Chambless Motel (Chambless)

👉 Travel Tip:
The stretch between Barstow and Needles is packed with amazing abandoned sites, dusty ghost towns, and endless desert views — perfect for classic Route 66 photography adventures! 📸🛣️

Classic Service Stations

Cucamonga Service Station (Restored)
- Address: 9670 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
- Beautifully restored 1915-era Richfield gas station turned museum.
Amboy’s Route 66 Service Station (Partially Restored)
- Address: Amboy, CA 92304 (at Roy’s Motel and Café)
- Historic site featuring an old gas station; iconic Roy’s sign and café still there.
Barstow’s Route 66 “El Rancho” Service Station (Repurposed)
- Address: 1001 West Main Street, Barstow, CA 92311
- Historic Route 66 gas station — now a part of the El Rancho Motel complex.
Wigwam Motel Gas Station (site)
- Address: 2728 W Foothill Blvd, San Bernardino, CA 92410
- The Wigwam Motel originally had a small gas station attached; remnants and signage remain.
Daggett Gas Station Ruins
- Address: Near National Trails Hwy, Daggett, CA 92327
- Abandoned early Route 66 gas station; mostly ruins now but a classic ghost town photo stop.
Victorville Old Shell Station (Restored as Art Center)
- Address: 15617–15623 7th St, Victorville, CA 92395
- Former Shell station from the 1930s, now part of the California Route 66 Museum campus.
Needles Texaco Station (Historic but Repurposed)
- Address: 801–805 W Broadway St, Needles, CA 92363
- This former Texaco station structure still stands and has been repurposed.
Ludlow Gas Station (abandoned)
- Address: 68315 National Trails Hwy, Ludlow, CA 92338
- A shuttered and weathered station from mid-century travel days — classic desert vibe.
Helendale’s Burden’s Service Station (Historic site)
- Address: 26473 National Trails Hwy, Helendale, CA 92342
- Once a key stop on Route 66; the building remains as a marker of its gas station history.
Bagdad Café Area (site of old station nearby)
- Address: 46548 National Trails Hwy, Newberry Springs, CA 92365
- Near the famous Bagdad Café, the ruins of old gas stations and trading posts still dot the area.

Note:

Many of California’s desert-area stations are either ruins or partial structures.
In cities like Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino, restorations preserve the 1930s–50s vibe.
Amboy and Roy’s Motel and Café are especially iconic if you want a photo op!

Historic Districts

Bridges

Trading Posts, Cafes, Shops, and Stores

Needles, CA – Just a few miles down the road from Barstow lies Needles, an old western town situated right on the Colorado River. It’s here that you’ll find some of the most stunning views along Route 66—including panoramic vistas of desert sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. You can also take a stroll down Main Street, where many original buildings from days gone by still stand today.

Amboy – Next up is Amboy itself—an unincorporated community located just outside Roy’s Café that boasts a number of interesting sites including an abandoned gas station (which was featured in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome), an old schoolhouse, and even an abandoned motel called “The Hotel Lazy Lizard!” Of course, no trip to Amboy would be complete without stopping by Roy’s Café again for another bite to eat!

Amboy, CA – Roy’s Cafe – Your next stop should be at Roy’s Café in Amboy—a mid-century diner that has been serving travelers since 1938! Here you can get classic American food like burgers and fries or indulge in something more unique such as their famous chili-cheese steak sandwich or homemade peach cobbler for dessert. In addition to its great food, Roy’s Café is also known for having an incredible atmosphere with vintage decorations from all over America’s past.

Bagdad, CA –

Ludlow, CA –

Newbeery Springs, CA – If you’re visiting Southern California, the iconic Route 66 is bound to be on your itinerary. It’s hard not to get excited about taking a drive along this legendary highway, but don’t forget that one of the attractions along your journey should be Newberry Springs! This small town might look unassuming from afar, but it has plenty of surprises and beauty awaiting those who take time to explore its winding roads and vast desert landscape. From historic sites carved out in the canyons to abandoned mines speckled with minerals, here’s what you should expect when you visit Newberry Springs – a unique stop along one of America’s most beloved highways.

Daggett, CA – Attention all Route 66 adventurers! Are you looking for a unique and fun detour while exploring the iconic highway? Then put Daggett, California on your list of must-visit cities. Situated in the Mojave Desert between Barstow and Needles, this small desert oasis is teeming with history and natural wonders that are second to none. From its deep roots to its current state, Daggett offers something special for visitors just waiting to be discovered! Keep reading as we dive into fascinating details about this charming town off of America’s beloved Route 66.

Barstow – Located halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Barstow is a great place to start your journey on Route 66 in California. This small town was once a major stop for travelers making their way along the highway and is still home to plenty of great attractions like Calico Ghost Town & Regional Park and Barstow Station shopping center. The area also has several historic buildings like the Harvey House Railroad Depot that are worth checking out.

Oro Grande, CA – Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch – Do you like quirky roadside attractions? If so, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, CA is definitely a can’t-miss! Situated along historic route 66 and founded by the late Elmer Long himself, this fascinating attraction draws visitors from around the world to take in its unique displays. On any given day at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch you’ll find an oasis of brightly colored recycled glass bottles embedded into trees, creating a magical display that will dazzle and entertain. Furthermore, traveling through Elmer’s incredible ranch gives you the opportunity to explore some truly hidden gems while learning more about desert history and culture as well.

Emma Jean’s Cafe –

Victorville, CA – Victorville, California is a historically-rich town located along famous Route 66. Home to over 120,000 residents and growing rapidly, this small city holds some amazing stories of the Old West. From Native American ruins to the expansive Mojave desert and everything in between – Victorville has so much to offer travelers! Whether you’re interested in learning more about earlier inhabitants of this area or just wanting to take a road trip down historic Route 66, there’s something interesting for everyone exploring Victorville. Keep reading if you want to learn why this once sleepy mining town is now one of the fastest growing cities on the west coast!

Cajon Pass –

San Bernardino, CA – Are you an adventurous traveler looking to explore the exciting sites of Route 66? Then you’ve come to the right place! San Bernardino is an essential stop in any Road Trip along the iconic US highway, with a wide selection of attractions and things to do. From California-style classic diners to historic museums, there’s something here for everyone – so join us as we explore some of the absolute must-see stops on your journey down The Mother Road! The Wigwam Motel, Original McDonald’s Hamburger Stand, McDonald’s Museum,

Rialto, CA – Have you ever wanted to explore the Route 66 of the future? Then look no further than Rialto, California. This is a city that was originally founded in 1886 and brings with it a deep backstory permeated by tradition and regional pride. Not only is Rialto known for its great connection to Route 66, but also its place in local history -from its days as an agricultural powerhouse to now as one of the most dynamic areas found along this section of Southern California’s storied past. So if you’re looking for more information on how to experience all that is classic yet contemporary here in Rialto, let us give you the nitty gritty details about what makes this city unique and worthy of visiting!

Rancho Cucamonga, CA – For most Route 66 travelers, taking a trip down America’s iconic highway promises an exciting adventure full of nostalgia and history. If you’re making your way through California on the legendary road, then you won’t be disappointed by what Rancho Cucamonga has to offer! Aside from being home to one of the original stops on Route 66, this charming city is filled with everything from historical monuments and fun activities for families to world-class attractions and unique eateries. In our latest blog post, we’ll take you through some must-see spots in Rancho Cucamonga that are sure to make your journey unforgettable. Get ready – it’s time to hit the open (old) road!

Claremont, CA –

Glendora, CA –

Pasadena, CA – If you’re a lover of history, culture, interesting landmarks and lots of sunshine, Pasadena might just be the perfect destination for you. Located in Los Angeles County about 10 miles from downtown LA, Pasadena’s roots are firmly planted in Americana; it was even an important crossroad on Route 66 during its heyday. With that said, there is plenty to explore and discover when traveling through this vibrant city! From eating your way around town to checking out some of its top attractions—including the world-famous Rose Bowl Stadium—Pasadena has something inspiring waiting around every corner. Keep reading to discover what makes this sunny city so special and how you can make the most of your stay here.

Santa Monica, CA – Santa Monica, California is a well-known city situated right on the Pacific Ocean. It’s often associated with surfers and beach culture, but its history goes much deeper than that. From a Native American settlement to the endpoint of Route 66, Santa Monica has had many lives and continues to grow. In this blog post we’ll explore some of Santa Monica’s storied past and look at how the city grew over time into what it is today. Let’s delve into the fascinating story of Santa Monica!

Route 66 in California offers travelers a chance to explore some of America’s most beloved cities along one legendary stretch of highway. From Barstow all the way to Lupton there are so many amazing sites and activities waiting for you—so make sure not to miss out! Whether it’s visiting historic landmarks or indulging in delicious local cuisine at Roy’s Café; there truly is something special about this route that everyone should experience at least once! Happy travels!